Operating Systems

Operating Systems

1. What is?

   • An operating system is software responsible for acting as a bridge between the user and the hardware to facilitate the execution of software.
     • Ways to execute tasks
       • Main frame
         • personal pc operating systems
       • Desktop computer
         • They execute video games and heavy applications
           • Operating systems are designed to be practical and efficient.
       • Laptop or notebook
         • Help run programs more easily

2. Structure

   • Here are five types of operating system designs.
     • Modular
       • This structure involves the organization and design of the operating system into various modules, each of which serves a specific purpose. These modules are interconnected through interfaces.
     • MicroKernel
       • A microkernel is an operating system structure that follows the principle of maintaining a minimal and modular core, delegating most of the system's functions to separate processes, thereby improving system flexibility, stability, and security.
     • Concentric Rings
       • The purpose of this structure is to organize the operating system or data into layers, with the first ones being the most critical and the last ones being less critical, yet each serving its primary function. These layers revolve around a central layer.
     • Client-Server
       • The client-server structure involves a client requesting a service that requires the assistance of a server. The server is responsible for storing information and providing a response to the client based on the requested need. This architecture is commonly observed in applications like websites, online video games, email services, and many other applications.
     • Virtual operating system
       • This structure allows you to create, manage, and run an operating system, whether it's the same as or different from the one you already have, through a virtual machine.

3. Its main function

   • To gain a better understanding of an operating system, it's essential to consider two perspectives: that of the user and that of the system.
     • points of view
       • User
         • The user's perspective can vary as each operating system possesses its own characteristics. However, most operating systems utilize hardware to enable interaction with the system, allowing users to harness the full potential of the computer. Therefore, operating systems must be user-friendly and easy to comprehend.
       • Computer
         • From this perspective, an operating system is software that oversees hardware components, such as memory and input/output devices, among others. Additionally, it manages various running applications by allocating resources to ensure the proper functioning of the computer.

4. Definition

   • There is no single universal definition of an operating system, as they can vary depending on the company or individual who creates them, exhibiting diverse characteristics. However, a commonly used definition to describe an operating system is that it is a software component that runs when a computer is powered on, often referred to as the kernel

5. Components

   • Operating systems can be divided into four components
     • User
     • Hardware
       • CPU OR UCP (central porocessing unit)
       • The memory
       • Input and output devices
     • Software
       • Text processors
       • Web browsers
       • Spreadsheet
     • Operatin Systems
       • Control the hardware between the different applications through the user